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Wuss
01
a person regarded as weak, timid, or lacking courage, especially seen as unmanly
Dialect
American
American
Offensive
Slang
Grammatical Information
Animacy status
Human
Composition
Simple
Countable
Plural form
wusses
What is the origin of the term "wuss" and how is it used?
"Wuss" emerged in American slang in the late 20th century, possibly as a softened form of stronger insults or influenced by words implying weakness. It came to describe someone seen as timid, weak, or lacking courage, often with an implication of failing masculine expectations. It is used informally among peers or in teasing. The term is derogatory but usually mild to moderate in force.
Examples
He wo n't ride the rollercoaster – what a wuss.
